Samuel Barber ： Canzone

As its title suggests, this chamber work is centered on a broad, lyrical melody with a distinctly vocal quality. The melodic instrument and piano seem to engage in dialogue, while the piano does more than accompany: it supports the harmonic color and overall flow, giving the music added depth. The appeal lies less in overt virtuosity than in the long-breathed phrases, rich sonority, and delicate shifts of shade. In performance, it is important to preserve the singing quality of the melody and carefully balance it against the accompaniment. Pedaling should be controlled so that the texture remains clear; attention to phrase breathing and natural tension brings out the work’s quiet expressiveness.